Few sporting competitions match the electric rise of Women’s Australian Rules Football (AFLW). The energy of the crowd, the fierce athleticism on the field, and the family-friendly community atmosphere combine to create an unforgettable day out. Whether you are a lifelong footy fan or completely new to the sport, this visitor guide will help you understand what to expect at your first Hawthorn AFLW game.
Preparing for your first AFLW match
Enjoying your first AFLW match is all about a little simple preparation. Knowing your ticketing options, how to get to the stadium, and what facilities are available will allow you to focus entirely on the action.
Choosing the Right AFLW Ticket
AFLW matches offer incredible value for sports fans. Tickets are highly affordable, making it easy to bring the whole family or a large group of friends.
🟤 General Admission: Most AFLW match tickets give you access to open terrace areas or grandstands, letting you pick your favourite vantage point.
Purchase AFLW tickets here 🔗
🟡 AFLW Memberships: If you plan on attending multiple games, a Hawthorn AFLW membership offers the best value, along with exclusive club access.
Become a Hawks AFLW Member 🔗
🟤 Tip for Visitors: Be sure to purchase your tickets digitally before arriving at the gates to ensure quick, contactless entry.
Navigating to the Venue: The Kennedy Community Centre and Beyond
For the first time in 2026, Hawthorn AFLW is hosting its primary home matches at the club's brand-new, elite training and community facility: the Kennedy Community Centre in Dingley Village. Beyond their primary home ground, the Hawks will also feature in blockbusters at IKON Park and take the game north for an exciting match at Cazalys Stadium in Cairns.
Map out your journey in advance to ensure a smooth, stress-free arrival at the gates. To get to the Kennedy Community Centre, driving and parking at the venue is the most accessible. For AFLW matches, on-site parking fills quickly. Event staff manage entry and overflow parking areas, but using public transport or rideshare may be more convenient for big fixtures. While Dingley Village does not have its own train station, you can easily connect via bus from nearby stations:
Train + Bus Connection
🟤 Take the Pakenham or Cranbourne line train to Springvale Station.
🟡 Catch the Route 811 bus (Dandenong - Brighton via Springvale) from the station.
🟤 Disembark along Tootal Road / McClure Road, which drops you near the entrance to the Kennedy Community Centre.
Alternative Bus Routes: Route 811 also runs through Mentone, Springvale, and Dandenong, connecting with Mentone Station (Frankston Line) and Dandenong Station.
For specific Game Day information, and travel options, visit the AFLW Game Day Hub.
Timing Your Arrival
We highly recommend arriving at least 45 to 60 minutes before the match commences. Arriving early lets you beat the gate queues, browse the official merchandise, grab a classic stadium snack, and secure the perfect viewing spot on the hill or in the grandstand.
Understanding the Basics of AFLW
If you are new to Australian Rules Football, the speed and unique shape of the ground can look complex. Don't worry—the core objectives are incredibly simple to follow.
The Scoring System
The game is played on a large oval field between two teams of 16 players on the field (with 5 on the bench). The main goal is to kick the ball between four vertical posts at either end of the ground.
🟤 Goal (6 Points): Kicking the ball directly between the two tall middle posts.
🟡 Behind (1 Point): If the ball hits a post, goes between a tall post and a short outer post, or is carried/forced over the scoring line by a player.
Key Game Terms to Listen For
🟤 A Mark: When a player cleanly catches a kicked ball that has traveled more than 15 metres. The player who catches it gets a "free kick" and time to stop and look for their next pass.
🟡 Handball: To pass the ball by hand, a player must punch it out of one hand with their alternate fist. Simply throwing the ball is illegal.
🟤 The Tackle: Players can tackle an opponent who has the ball by grabbing them between the shoulders and the knees to force a turnover.
The Inclusive Fan Culture and Atmosphere
One of the defining features of an AFLW match is the crowd culture. It is widely celebrated for being welcoming, family-oriented, highly progressive, and safe for fans of all backgrounds.
Cheering with the Mighty Brown and Gold
You will see a sea of brown and gold scarves, beanies, and guernseys filling the stands. Do not be shy to join in the collective groans during a near-miss or the massive roars when the Hawks kick a spectacular team goal. If the team secures a victory, stand proud and listen to the historic Hawthorn Football Club song echo across the ground!
If the Hawks win, you will hear the Hawthorn Football Club song. You can come prepared by learning the song here.
Family Friendly Activations
At the AFLW, kids are closer to the action than ever before. Most matches feature dedicated fan zones packed with activities like face painting, inflatables, football-kicking targets, and/or giveaways to keep younger fans thoroughly entertained before and during the match.
Making the Most of Your Game Day Experience
To ensure your first Hawthorn AFLW match is truly memorable, keep these three final tips in mind:
1. Dress for the Weather: Melbourne’s weather can be unpredictable. Many AFLW grounds feature open lawns, so pack a warm jacket, a rain poncho, and sunscreen so you are comfortable no matter the forecast.
2. Take Home a Memento: Stop by the HawksNest merchandise store to pick up a classic brown and gold scarf or a player badge. It is a lightweight, perfect keepsake to remember your first live footy experience. Or, come prepared by shopping HawksNest online before the match.
3. Stay for the Post-Match: A unique and beloved tradition of the AFLW is the post-match interaction. After the final siren sounds, players frequently walk around the boundary fence to sign autographs, take selfies, and chat with the fans. It is the perfect opportunity to meet your favorite Hawthorn heroes up close!
Ready to Experience the Action?
A Hawthorn AFLW match is more than just a sports game; it's a community celebration filled with passion, skill, and incredible energy. Secure your tickets, plan your route, throw on some brown and gold, and get ready to step into the roar of the crowd.
